Meet Naganobu Abiru | Tattoo Artist

We had the good fortune of connecting with Naganobu Abiru and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Naganobu, looking back, what do you think was the most difficult decision you’ve had to make?
very moment of life may indeed be a difficult decision. However, I have had a wife who has supported me with all the decisions I’ve made since before marriage, and most decisions have led my life in a better direction. So, I’ve come to understand that important and difficult decisions are turning points in life that pioneer new paths. Now, when making such decisions, I feel excitement rather than fear.

Among them, the most difficult decision was to immigrate to the United States. I was born in Japan as a mixed-race between a Korean mother and a Japanese father. Although I spent more time in Korea as I grew up, I had never thought about living in a country other than Korea and Japan.

It was not an easy decision to leave for a distant place, especially considering the situation of having a wife, children, and a mother who raised me, needing support. However, as always, I decided to believe that my choice would lead to a better life for me and my family. All my family members are supporting my decision. Starting a business in a new land with the career I have built where I have lived so far will not be easy. However, I want to believe more in myself because I have a family who always supports me by my side. It is still a decision in the preparation stage, but I hope all procedures will be completed promptly. I look forward to the day when I can pursue my dreams in the United States. I also want to express my gratitude to my mentor, Jose Lopez, and my Lowrider family, who have always been a source of strength for me.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
I’ve put a lot of thought into incorporating East Asia cultural elements into my black and gray tattoos. Adding Korean themes like historical artifacts, figures, and mythical creatures has allowed me to express myself in new ways. While I don’t follow Buddhism, I find inspiration in its principles. I think the fusion of Eastern and Western cultures in my art makes it unique and attracts interest. Sometimes, I face slumps, but I see them as opportunities for growth. Each challenge I overcome leads to artistic development. Now, I view breaking through these obstacles as a positive mission.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
First, I’ll be heading to Low Rider Studio in Orange County with my friends, who all love tattoos. There are some great taco trucks nearby, and I trust my friend Steven to lead us to the best one. I also want to take them to see the Pacific Ocean, which is always beautiful no matter which beach you visit.

Since the weather is usually good, relaxing in a pool or jacuzzi is a must. While enjoying a cold Modelo, of course.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
I feel like I wouldn’t be the person I am today without the support of my family, who have always been there for me and supported my choices even when I doubted myself or felt overwhelmed. I’m grateful for them. I also want to give a shoutout to Sen and Jodi, my coworkers at stdio, as we’ve grown together and encouraged each other through new challenges this year.

Even though they’re far away now, I can’t forget my low rider crew back in Korea, who welcomed me warmly. Especially Jose Lopez, who inspired me artistically and motivated me to be a better person. Overall, my family and friends are the driving force behind my personal growth, and I believe they all deserve praise for living their lives passionately. I want to be there for them in both happy and sad times.

Reflecting on my life, I’m grateful for everyone around me.

Instagram: Abiru_tattoo

Image Credits
ABIRU NAGANOBU